Charles Frank Thomas Jr.

Upon graduation of high school, Charles enlisted in the US Army where he proudly served and was stationed at Fort Lewis, WA. He was recognized for his honorable service.

After military service, he moved to Tennessee where he purchased his own semi-truck and became a self-employed long distance truck driver. Feeling the need to return home to be able to spend time with his mother and family, he returned to Charlotte where he became very involved with his church, Hickory Grove United Methodist Church. He enjoyed working with youth groups and the outreach ministry, We Care. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ.

Charlie had a natural personality that really got along with children and the elderly and pretty much everyone he met. He was a true lover of dogs. Charlie never hesitated to help anyone with anything they needed. A man with simple tastes, he enjoyed bbq, cornbread, hot sauce, jeans, t-shirts and boots. He loved camping, the outdoors and going to the gym. Charlie loved to joke around and the people who really knew him, loved him.

Charlie was truly a great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family and friends that loved him dearly. He was a selfless man whose passing left an unfillable gap in the hearts of his loved ones. His ability to help, care, give and love will be forever engrained in all who knew him.

Left to mourn his loss is his mom Kathy Coates, sister Sherri Owen, brother Billy Coates Jr, aunts Gail Kimbrell and Tamula Crook, several cousins, friends Randy and Tammy Bullard and girlfriend Maureen Faughnan.

A visitation is planned for Wednesday, March 1, 2023 from 7-9pm at McEwen Funeral Service located at 5716 Monroe Road in Charlotte. Committal with US Army Honors will take place on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at Salisbury National Cemetery located at 501 Statesville Road in Salisbury, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Charlie’s name to Hickory Grove United Methodist Church located at 6401 Hickory Grove Road, Charlotte NC 28215.